BEWARE,
TAKE HEED:
POPULAR INTERPRETATION

It
has been said, "Beware of the intoxicating influence of popularity."Popular interpretationis not necessarily
the correct one. Neither is popular interpretation a guarantee of accuracy.
There are many popular sayings and traditions in today’s
churches that are not based upon rightly dividing God’s Word. It was the same
in the days that Jesus was upon the earth. The Pharisees and other religious
orders held to unbiblical traditions, which they believed were
correct. When Jesus corrected them, they would often become very angry.
Many people, today, refuse to be corrected on popular unbiblical
traditions. Many, in this church age, despise correction; they hate to admit
that they could be wrong on anything. A person who takes a stand against popular
traditions, which are wrong, can often expect to have unloving people get angry
with him.

12-(Scripture)

Mt 24:42-51-WATCH THEREFORE:
FOR YE KNOW NOT WHAT HOUR (or day) YOUR LORD DOTH COME.
Mt 24:43-BUT KNOW THIS (or understand), THAT IF THE GOODMAN
OF THE HOUSE HAD KNOWN IN WHAT WATCH THE THIEF WOULD COME, HE WOULD HAVE WATCHED,
AND WOULD NOT HAVE SUFFERED HIS HOUSE TO BE BROKEN UP.
Mt 24:44-THEREFORE BE YE ALSO READY: FOR IN SUCH AN HOUR
AS YE THINK NOT THE SON OF MAN COMETH (will come at an hour when you do not
expect Him-NIV).
Mt 24:45-WHO THEN IS A FAITHFUL AND WISE SERVANT, WHOM HIS
LORD HATH MADE RULER (or put in charge) OVER HIS HOUSEHOLD (the servants in
his household-NIV), TO GIVE THEM MEAT (or food) IN DUE SEASON?
Mt 24:46-BLESSED IS THAT SERVANT, WHOM HIS LORD WHEN HE COMETH
SHALL FIND SO DOING.
Mt 24:47-VERILY I SAY UNTO YOU, THAT HE SHALL MAKE HIM RULER
OVER ALL HIS GOODS (or He will put him in charge of all his possessions-NIV.)
Mt 24:48-BUT AND IF THAT EVIL (or wicked) SERVANT SHALL SAY
IN HIS HEART, MY LORD DELAYETH HIS COMING (or my master is staying away a long
time-NIV.)
Mt 24:49-AND SHALL BEGIN TO SMITE HIS FELLOWSERVANTS, AND
TO EAT AND DRINK WITH THE DRUNKEN;
Mt 24:50-THE LORD OF THAT SERVANT SHALL COME
IN A DAY WHEN HE LOOKETH NOT FOR HIM, AND IN AN HOUR THAT HEIS NOT AWARE OF,
Mt 24:51-AND SHALL CUT HIM ASUNDER (or cut him to pieces,
or cut him off), AND APPOINT (or assign) HIM HIS PORTION WITH THE HYPOCRITES:
THERE SHALL BE WEEPING AND GNASHING OF TEETH.
Note the following words, Verse 42-YE KNOW NOT WHAT HOUR
YOUR LORD DOTH COME. Verse 44-FOR IN SUCH AN HOUR AS YE THINK NOT THE SON OF
MAN COMETH. Verse 50-THE LORD...SHALL COME IN A DAY WHEN HE LOOKETH NOT FOR
HIM, AND IN AN HOUR THAT HE IS NOT AWARE OF.

(Scripture with commentary)

Mt
24:42-WATCH THEREFORE: FOR YE KNOW NOT WHAT HOUR (or day) YOUR LORD DOTH COME.
The command to WATCH is given. Then we see the words, YE KNOW NOT. The question
then arises, who does not know? Is it the unbelievers? Is it the unfaithful,
unwise believers? Is it everyone? The following verses answer these questions.
The Scripture concludes with, WHAT HOUR YOUR LORD DOTH COME. Some might say
this is talking about the Rapture. Others may say it is the physical return
of Jesus Christ. This topic has already been dealt with in previous verses.
It could cover both.
Mt 24:43-BUT KNOW THIS (or understand), God’s Word is telling
us to know something. THAT IF THE GOODMAN OF THE HOUSE HAD KNOWN IN WHAT WATCH
THE THIEF WOULD COME, HE WOULD HAVE WATCHED, AND WOULD NOT HAVE SUFFERED HIS
HOUSE TO BE BROKEN UP. Note the words, IF THE GOODMAN...HAD KNOWN...HE WOULD
HAVE WATCHED. We are commanded to watch. We are to be in a constant state of
anticipation. If then watching can also be dependent upon knowing when the thief
would come, then it is obvious we can know. Next the question arises, "Who
can know?" We see a progression, which is first based upon understanding,
then knowing when, then watching, and then making sure the house is not broken
up. The scriptural context is based upon knowing when Jesus would return and
making sure that the goodman’s house is also ready for the return of Jesus.
Mt 24:44-THEREFORE BE YE ALSO READY: FOR IN SUCH AN HOUR
AS YE THINK NOT THE SON OF MAN COMETH (or will come at an hour when you do not
expect Him-NIV). Now we see the command, BE YE…READY. Then the wording comes
forth, denoting that Jesus returns at an hour that people do not expect. Again
the question, "Is this talking to everyone or a certain group of people?"
Mt 24:45-WHO THEN IS A FAITHFUL AND WISE SERVANT, WHOM HIS
LORD HATH MADE RULER OVER HIS HOUSEHOLD (or has put in charge of His servants),
TO GIVE THEM MEAT (or food) IN DUE SEASON? A question is asked, which is twofold.
WHO...IS A FAITHFUL...SERVANT? WHO...IS A...WISE SERVANT? Three key words here,
FAITHFUL, WISE, SERVANT. Following the twofold question, the comment comes forth,
WHOM HIS LORD HATH MADE RULER OVER HIS HOUSEHOLD. Many are called by the Lord
to be a ruler over His household, but they are not faithful. They are not wise,
neither are they willing to be a servant and serve God faithfully. That servant
(some may say a teacher of the Bible in some capacity) is to GIVE MEAT (or food)
IN DUE SEASON. Since these verses are talking in the context of the return of
Jesus Christ, it would seem very clear that the meat (or food) would not only
be talking about giving the bread of life (the Word of God) but would also include
giving the food of the Word dealing with the coming of the Lord. This is so
those under him (in the Lord’s household) would not be unprepared when the Lord
returns, and miss the Rapture, and perish to the lake of fire. The words, DUE
SEASON, are talking about the proper season or proper time. When certain prophecies
have come to pass, we then KNOW that the coming of the Lord is at hand. Those
called of God are to bring forth this Word of the Lord in its season. That season
is NOW.To put it plainly, woe to the head of a household or preacher
who does not get his people ready in the generation, time or season that will
actually see the return of Jesus Christ. During the generation that the Rapture
will come, woe to those that say, "I will teach on everything, except the
coming of Jesus and the signs that go with it." Woe to the unfaithful who
does not give a warning that the time is at hand in the season (the due season)
that Jesus will return. There are some that might not like to agree with these
evaluations and warnings.
Mt 24:46-BLESSED IS THAT SERVANT, WHOM HIS LORD WHEN HE COMETH
SHALL FIND SO DOING. Note, that servant shall be blessed. What servant? The
servant that is faithful and wise. When the Lord returns, he shall be DOING,
that is, bringing forth God’s Word about the coming of the Lord. He shall be
doing all possible to prepare himself and those under him.
In order to do this, he certainly needs to know and understand
the times we are in. To this faithful and wise servant, these things are not
hid from him. He is not in darkness that that day should overtake him as a thief.
Mt 24:47-VERILY I SAY UNTO YOU, THAT HE SHALL MAKE HIM RULER
OVER ALL HIS GOODS (or He will put him in charge of all his possessions-NIV).
When the Lord comes, that faithful and wise servant will be put in charge of
all that he has.
Mt 24:48-BUT AND IF THAT EVIL (or wicked) SERVANT SHALL SAY
IN HIS HEART, MY LORD DELAYETH HIS COMING (or my master is staying away a long
time-NIV). In this verse, we have a picture of a professing Christian that calls
Jesus MY LORD. He appears to begin following Jesus and serving Him faithfully
for a period of time. Nevertheless, this SERVANT is wicked. He notes that the
Lord has not returned, and then says IN HIS HEART, MY LORD DELAYETH HIS COMING.
He has at least some knowledge that the Lord will return, but he is certainly
not walking in the fear of the Lord. Note, however, the word "IF."
If he does this and the following, then certain things are promised that shall
come upon him.
Mt 24:49-AND SHALL BEGIN TO SMITE HIS FELLOWSERVANTS, AND
TO EAT AND DRINK WITH THE DRUNKEN. This evil servant also begins to smite his
fellow servants or fellow Christians. This indicates that he is, indeed, a servant
of Jesus, but a wicked one that begins having evil thoughts and then turns against
his brethren in Jesus. Smiting can denote both physical abuse and verbal. If
he begins to eat with the drunken, if he begins to drink with the drunken (that
is, with the unbelievers), if he does these things, then the Lord promises the
following to this servant that was evil and turned.
Mt 24:50-THE LORD OF THAT SERVANT SHALL COME
IN A DAY WHEN HE LOOKETH NOT FOR HIM, AND IN AN HOUR THAT HE
IS NOT AWARE OF. The verse clearly tells us that Jesus is THE LORD OF THAT SERVANT.
It tells us that Jesus will come when this evil servant does not look for Him
to come. We may say that this evil servant becomes blinded and deceived. He
was expecting Jesus to return, but then, when Jesus did not return, he turned
from the light to the darkness. This servant will not understand when Jesus
will return. Jesus will return IN AN HOUR that this EVIL SERVANT...IS NOT AWARE
OF.
Mt 24:51-AND SHALL CUT HIM ASUNDER (or cut him to pieces,
or cut him off), AND APPOINT (or assign) HIM HIS PORTION WITH THE HYPOCRITES:
THERE SHALL BE WEEPING AND GNASHING OF TEETH. Jesus returns, but the evil servant
is not ready. He is cut to pieces and will perish WITH THE HYPOCRITES for eternity.
It is this servant that will not know when the Lord will return; this servant
will not know the hour.
The faithful and wise servant that obeyed God will understand
and know; he will not be caught off guard. Jesus comes as a thief in the night
to those not ready and watching. Jesus does not come as a thief in the night
to those that are watching and ready.

Group one He is
a servant of Jesus Christ
He is evil
He is not ready
He does not know or understand when Jesus will come
He does not know what hour His Lord comes
He is not faithful
He is not wise
He is not feeding those under him with God’s Word, including
prophecy
He is not blessed
When Jesus comes, he is not doing
He says in his heart, "My Lord delayeth His coming"
He begins to smite his fellow Christians
He begins to eat and drink with the drunken
Jesus comes in a day that he is not looking for Him
Jesus comes in an hour that he is not aware of
He shall perish

Group two He is
a servant of Jesus Christ
The goodman (head) of the house
He can know when (or what watch) the thief will come
He watches
He does not allow his house to be broken up
He is ready
He is faithful
He is wise
He feeds those under him with God’s Word, including prophecy
He is blessed
When Jesus comes, he is found doing
He does not say in his heart, "My Lord delayeth His
coming," and turn away
He is made ruler over all that he has
Jesus comes in a day when he is looking for Him
Jesus comes in an hour that he is aware of
He does not perish

13-(Scripture
with commentary)

Lk 21:34-36-AND TAKE HEED TO
YOURSELVES (be careful), LEST AT ANY TIME YOUR HEARTS BE OVERCHARGED (or weighted
down, or dulled) WITH SURFEITING (or dissipation, or carousing, or overindulgence),
AND DRUNKENNESS, AND CARES OF THIS LIFE (or the worries of everyday living),
AND SO THAT DAY COME UPON YOU UNAWARES (or that day will close on you unexpectedly-NIV,
or suddenly like a trap).
Lk 21:35-FOR AS A SNARE SHALL IT COME (or close) ON ALL THEM
THAT DWELL ON THE FACE OF THE WHOLE EARTH (no matter where they live throughout
the whole world-JNT5).
Lk 21:36-WATCH YE THEREFORE (be always on the watch) (stay
alert), AND PRAY ALWAYS, THAT YE MAY BE ACCOUNTED WORTHY TO ESCAPE ALL THESE
THINGS THAT SHALL COME TO PASS (or that will happen), AND (that you may be able-NIV)
TO STAND BEFORE THE SON OF MAN.
There appear to be two groups here. The one group is not
careful. They become weighted down with doing things, the desires or lusts of
the flesh, and the worries of everyday living. The Rapture comes, and they do
not expect it. They do not escape all those things that shall come to pass—the
Tribulation.
The second group heeds God’s warning. They are raptured.
They do escape the Tribulation and are found standing before Jesus.

Group one Their hearts become weighted down with carousing
Their hearts become weighted down with drunkenness
Their hearts become weighted down with the cares or worries
of everyday living
They are not watching
The Rapture comes on them unexpectedly
They do not escape the Tribulation
Group two
Their hearts are not weighted down with carousing
Their hearts are not weighted down with drunkenness
Their hearts are not weighted down with the cares or worries
of everyday living
They are watching
The Rapture does not come on them unexpectedly
They escape the Tribulation
They stand before Jesus

14-WHO
CAN KNOW THE TIME? WHO CANNOT KNOW THE TIME?
THE CONCLUSION: UNDERSTANDING IS HIDDEN FROM SOME

In
conclusion of this topic, "WHO CAN KNOW THE TIME? WHO CANNOT KNOW THE TIME?"
Many verses have answered these questions clearly. As was said in the beginning,
in Dan 12:10-NONE OF THE WICKED SHALL UNDERSTAND; BUT THE WISE SHALL UNDERSTAND.
The Scriptures have shown that the Rapture will come as a
surprise to many professing Christians, who were not wise, not faithful, and
not watching. They will be left behind. Those of the darkness—that day shall
overtake them as a thief-ref 1 Thes 5:4.
However, the Rapture will not come as a surprise to the true
Christians that stood firm, that were wise, that were faithful, and that were
watching. When Jesus comes to take His church, these faithful few will be taken.
The following verses may also be noted. Jesus said, I THANK
THEE, O FATHER, LORD OF HEAVEN AND EARTH, THAT THOU HAST HID THESE THINGS FROM
THE WISE AND PRUDENT, AND HAST REVEALED THEM UNTO BABES: EVEN SO, FATHER; FOR
SO IT SEEMED GOOD IN THY SIGHT-Lk 10:21. They shall be EVER LEARNING, AND NEVER
ABLE TO COME TO THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH-2 Tim 3:7. Those that are wise in
their own eyes—the prideful, the unrepentant, those that are not humbled and
childlike before God’s Word—will not understand. Though they study and study,
they shall not come to the knowledge of the truth.
In addition, Jesus tells us, UNTO YOU IT IS GIVEN TO KNOW
THE MYSTERIES OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD: BUT TO OTHERS IN PARABLES; THAT SEEING
THEY MIGHT NOT SEE, AND HEARING THEY MIGHT NOT UNDERSTAND-Lk 8:10.
Misunderstanding of Scripture can often cause wrong traditions,
which take hold and mislead people. Satan, who is the author of
confusion, misusesScripture to deceive people into
thinking we cannot know the time.
The people that do not want to know that Jesus will soon
return to take His people, are those living in sin and do not want to repent.
The fact that Jesus will soon return scares people that are not ready, and they
often fight against the knowledge of the truth.
In addition, God’s Word tells us, it would be as the days
of Noah. It is written, BEFORE THE FLOOD THEY WERE EATING AND DRINKING, MARRYING
AND GIVING IN MARRIAGE, UNTIL THE DAY THAT NOAH (Noah) ENTERED INTO THE ARK,
AND KNEW NOT UNTIL THE FLOOD CAME, AND TOOK THEM ALL AWAY; SO SHALL ALSO THE
COMING OF THE SON OF MAN BE-Mt 24:38,39. God’s people knew that the flood was
coming. The people that lived in sin did not believe it.
Noah was a preacher of righteousness, but the evil people
of his day chose not to believe him; they perished.

15-GOD’S
PEOPLE ARE TO SEE CERTAIN THINGS,
HEAR CERTAIN THINGS, AND DO CERTAIN THINGS

The
Scriptures command the saints to watch and be ready. There are many verses dealing
with these days that we are living in; they show us what to look for. There
are specific verses in the Bible that clearly indicate we are to look
for certain things and even listen for certain things to be said. When
we see certain things or hear certain things, then we should know that other
events are about to happen.

16-SEE
CERTAIN THINGS

Lk
21:28-WHEN THESE THINGS BEGIN TO COME TO PASS. Then God’s Word tells us to look
up, and then tells us what we are to do, and what is about to happen.
We are to see and observe certain things happening, which are
beginning to come to pass.
Mt 24:33-WHEN YE SHALL SEE ALL THESE THINGS,
then the Bible tells us to know certain things.
Mk 13:29-WHEN YE SHALL SEE THESE THINGS COME
TO PASS, then the Bible tells us to know certain things.
Lk 21:31-WHEN YE SEE THESE THINGS COME TO PASS,
then the Bible commands us to know that a certain event is near.
Mt 24:15,16-WHEN YE...SHALL SEE THE ABOMINATION
OF DESOLATION...FLEE INTO THE MOUNTAINS. Other instructions are also given.
When a person shall see the abomination, the Bible commands them to do a specific
thing. Failure to understand this and obey God’s command, could cost the person
his life.
Mt 24:30-THEN SHALL APPEAR THE SIGN OF THE SON OF MAN IN
HEAVEN. When we see this event, then the verse tells us what shall
happen next.
Mt 24:30-THEY SHALL SEE THE SON OF MAN COMING
IN THE CLOUDS OF HEAVEN. Then certain events are given that would follow.
Mk 13:26-THEN SHALL THEY SEE THE SON OF MAN
COMING. Then certain events are given that would follow.
Lk 21:25-THERE SHALL BE SIGNS IN THE SUN, AND IN THE MOON,
AND IN THE STARS. Again, God’s Word gives certain events to see
or look for.
Lk 21:27-THEN SHALL THEY SEE THE SON OF MAN
COMING IN A CLOUD. Again, God’s Word gives a specific sign to see or look for.

17-LISTEN
FOR CERTAIN THINGS

1
Thes 5:3-FOR WHEN THEY SHALL SAY, PEACE AND SAFETY, then the verse tells us
what will happen next.
Mt 25:6-AT MIDNIGHT THERE WAS A CRY MADE, BEHOLD, THE BRIDEGROOM
COMETH. When a person hears this cry, he is given very exact instructions regarding
what to do.

18-DO
CERTAIN THINGS

Mt
24:20-BUT PRAY YE THAT YOUR FLIGHT BE NOT IN THE WINTER, NEITHER ON THE SABBATH
DAY. When the abomination of desolation occurs, God’s elect are to flee. But
before this ever happens, they are to PRAY as God commands them.

In
Lk 21:20-Jesus told His disciples, WHEN YE SHALL SEE JERUSALEM COMPASSED WITH
ARMIES, THEN KNOW THAT THE DESOLATION THEREOF IS NIGH. Verse 21-THEN...FLEE
TO THE MOUNTAINS. Additional instructions are also given. This came to pass,
it appears, within a generation of the crucifixion of Jesus. If a person did
not know this message, it might have cost him his life, because when Jerusalem
was compassed with armies, they would not have known what to do.
God forbid, most of God’s people are not looking to see any
event that is coming as they should be. Why? Their ministers are not teaching
them these things. They are often totally in the dark as to the Lord returning
soon.
How can we see and listen for these things, when ministers
of the Gospel are not teaching them? The answer is clear, YOU are to study.
It is unmistakably plain. People are to see certain things,
listen for certain things, and are under commandment to watch. Is this message
being taught today, as was given by God’s Word?
People that are ignorant of these things, today, clearly
may have a very difficult time ahead of them, for the coming of the Lord is
very near.
This list is not intended to be complete. It is intended
to convey, through God’s Word, the message that the people are to see certain
things. They are to hear certain things. They are to do certain things. And
that knowing the time, they need to study and search God’s Word, so they can
do as God commands, lest they be caught unaware by what will happen and perish.

19-COMMANDS
TO WATCH

The
watchman is to warn the people. Teachers of the Bible are watchmen. Ministers
are watchmen. The saints are watchmen. A person watches for things they believe
will happen. They believe it will happen, because there is evidence of some
kind. We watch because the Bible tells us of certain events that will come to
pass. It gives us certain things to watch for. We watch, because God commands
us to do so. When we see certain events come to pass, we are to warn the people
of what is yet to come. We warn the people to prepare themselves. We warn the
people, so they may not perish. If they choose not to heed the warning and not
to believe, then their blood is upon themselves. But if we are unfaithful and
do not warn the people, then their blood is upon us as watchmen.
Ezek 3:17-I HAVE MADE THEE A WATCHMAN.
Ezek 33:7-I HAVE SET THEE A WATCHMAN…WARN THEM.
Mt 24:42-WATCH THEREFORE.
Mt 25:13-WATCH THEREFORE.
Mt 26:41-WATCH AND PRAY THAT YE ENTER NOT INTO TEMPTATION.
Mk 13:33-WATCH AND PRAY.
Mk 13:34-A MAN...COMMANDED THE PORTER TO WATCH.
Mk 13:35-WATCH YE THEREFORE.
Mk 13:37-AND WHAT I SAY UNTO YOU I SAY UNTO ALL, WATCH.
Mk 14:38-WATCH YE AND PRAY, LEST YE ENTER INTO TEMPTATION.
Lk 21:36-WATCH YE THEREFORE, AND PRAY ALWAYS, THAT YE MAY
BE ACCOUNTED WORTHY TO ESCAPE ALL THESE THINGS.
1 Thes 5:6-LET US NOT SLEEP, AS DO OTHERS; BUT LET US WATCH.
Rev 3:3-IF...THOU SHALT NOT WATCH, I WILL COME ON THEE AS
A THIEF, AND THOU SHALT NOT KNOW WHAT HOUR I WILL COME UPON THEE.
Mt 24:43-IF THE GOODMAN...HAD KNOWN...HE WOULD HAVE WATCHED.
Lk 12:39-IF THE GOODMAN...HAD KNOWN...HE WOULD HAVE WATCHED.
Lk 12:37-BLESSED ARE THOSE SERVANTS, WHOM THE
LORD WHEN HE COMETH SHALL FIND WATCHING. Lk 12:40-BE YE THEREFORE READY.
Heb 9:28-SO CHRIST WAS ONCE OFFERED TO BEAR THE SINS OF MANY;
AND UNTO THEM THAT LOOK FOR HIM SHALL HE APPEAR THE SECOND TIME.
1 Thes 4:18-Regarding the Rapture, it is written, WHEREFORE
COMFORT ONE ANOTHER WITH THESE WORDS.
How can a person watch, if they cannot read, and their minister
does not tell them these things?

20-THE
WATCHMAN

WHEN
I BRING THE SWORD UPON A LAND, IF THE PEOPLE OF THE LAND TAKE A MAN OF THEIR
COASTS, AND SET HIM FOR THEIR WATCHMAN: IF WHEN HE SEETH THE SWORD COME UPON
THE LAND, HE BLOW THE TRUMPET, AND WARN THE PEOPLE; THEN WHOSOEVER HEARETH THE
SOUND OF THE TRUMPET, AND TAKETH NOT WARNING; IF THE SWORD COME, AND TAKE HIM
AWAY, HIS BLOOD SHALL BE UPON HIS OWN HEAD. HE HEARD THE SOUND OF THE TRUMPET,
AND TOOK NOT WARNING; HIS BLOOD SHALL BE UPON HIM. BUT HE THAT TAKETH WARNING
SHALL DELIVER HIS SOUL.
BUT IF THE WATCHMAN SEE THE SWORD COME, AND BLOW NOT THE
TRUMPET, AND THE PEOPLE BE NOT WARNED; IF THE SWORD COME, AND TAKE ANY PERSON
FROM AMONG THEM, HE IS TAKEN AWAY IN HIS INIQUITY; BUT HIS BLOOD WILL I REQUIRE
AT THE WATCHMAN’S HAND-Ezek 33:2-6.
We are in the latter day generation (or period of time) that
will see the Rapture, the Tribulation, and Jesus returning to this earth in
glory.
The sword shall come during the Tribulation. Nevertheless,
God has made a way for His people to escape. It is called the Rapture. The people
God has called to be watchmen, are being warned by God to warn the people of
what is coming. They are being admonished to tell the people to watch and be
ready. They need to tell the people what to watch for. They are being exhorted
to not let their house be broken up. If they are faithful and obey God, they
have delivered their own soul.
However, if the Rapture occurs, and the Tribulation comes,
and Jesus returns, but the watchman does not warn the people, their blood will
God require at the watchman’s hand.To that teacher of the Bible or saint that God has called
to be a watchman, woe to him, if he does not warn the people. Some will not warn people, because they fear what others
will say about them. They fear certain people in their church, denomination,
or others. They do not want to be ridiculed and persecuted, or even fired from
their position. Woe to the fearful and unbelieving. They do not believe they
will perish, even though it is written, BUT THE FEARFUL, AND UNBELIEVING...SHALL
HAVE THEIR PART IN THE LAKE WHICH BURNETH WITH FIRE AND BRIMSTONE-Rev 21:8.
Few people in this latter day generation are watching. Many
know nothing about such an event as the Rapture, the Tribulation, and the second
coming of Jesus. Many others deny there will be a Rapture. Many deny there will
be a Tribulation. Many deny Jesus Christ will physically return to this earth.
Others believe in these events, but make excuse, such as, "No man knows."
They make light of it and convince themselves that it is a long way off. Only
a very few believe these things will come to pass shortly. Only a few are watching
and ready.

21-WE
CANNOT KNOW THE DAY OR HOUR OF THE RAPTURE: IS THIS TRUE?

As
we have already noted, God commands us to learn, know, and understand the times
that we are now in. We have already noted that there are two groups throughout
the Scriptures.
In group one, some can know or understand that the Lord is
about to return, and some cannot. Some might be looking for the Lord to return
at this time, but most are not; neither are they really ready. Others may understand
the day and hour—but only when it is too late.

Group one Those
that are not wise
Those that believed in Jesus…but
Those that were foolish
Those that went forth to meet the bridegroom
Those that are wicked
Those that are evil
Those that were not God’s servants
Those that were God’s servants…but
Those of the night
Those of the darkness
Those that are in darkness
Those that are asleep
Those that are not watching
Those that are not ready
Those that do not think the Lord will come when He really
does
Those that let their house be broken into
Those that say, "My Lord is taking a long time to come;
my Lord delayeth His coming"
Those that begin to beat the menservants or fellow Christians
Those that begin to beat the maidens
Those that begin to eat and drink with the drunken
Those that begin to be drunken
Those that begin to drink with the drunken
Those that are not faithful
Those that had lamps that were burning, but they went out
Those that did not take oil in their jars
Those that did believe in the Rapture
Those that were caught by surprise
Those that thought they got saved but did not
Those that thought Jesus would still take them
Those that do not know or understand when Jesus will come
Those that do not know what hour his Lord will come
Those that are not feeding the people under them with God’s
Word, including prophecy
Those that are not "doing" when Jesus returns

Group
two can learn, know, and understand. They can know the generation. They can
understand what day of the year the Rapture will come. They can understand the
hour of the day that the cry will be heard. This group will be watching and
ready.

Group two Those
that are wise
Those that believed in Jesus
Those that went forth to meet the bridegroom
Those that are His servants; the servants of the Lord
The brethren
Those that are the children of the light
Those that are of the day
Those not in darkness
Those not of the night.
Those not of the darkness
Those that are not asleep
Those that are watching
Those that are ready
Those that expect the Lord’s return
Those that are not caught by surprise
Those that know that Jesus is about to return
Those that do not let their house be broken into, or be broken
up
Those who feed God’s flock with the Word (including prophecy),
they are giving them their portion of meat in due season
Those that do not say in their heart, "My Lord delayeth
His coming," and turn away
Those that do not beat the menservants or turn against them
Those that do not beat the maidens or turn against them
Those that do not begin to eat, and drink, and get drunk
Those that are faithful
Those that are found "doing," when the Lord returns
Those that had lamps that were burning and did not go out
Those that believed in the Rapture
Those that had oil also in their jars
Those that can know in what watch the thief will come

22-WHERE
IN THE BIBLE DOES IT SAY
THAT NO MAN CAN KNOW THE DAY AND THE HOUR OF THE RAPTURE?

Mt 24:35,36-HEAVEN AND EARTH
SHALL PASS AWAY, BUT MY WORDS SHALL NOT PASS AWAY. BUT OF THAT DAY AND HOUR
KNOWETH NO MAN, NO NOT THE ANGELS OF HEAVEN, BUT MY FATHER ONLY.
Some try to use this verse to say this tells us no one can
know the day and hour of the Rapture. This is not the case. This verse is the
answer to the third question that was asked of Jesus by His disciples, in Mt
24:3-which was, TELL US...WHAT SHALL BE THE SIGN...OF THE END OF THE WORLD?
The answer Jesus gave was that the HEAVEN AND EARTH SHALL PASS AWAY. Then Jesus
continued, BUT OF THAT DAY AND HOUR KNOWETH NO MAN. The Word of God gives us
hundreds of verses to help us know and understand the times we are currently
in. Nevertheless, regarding the time that the heaven and earth shall pass away,
there are no clues to exactly when it will happen other than, perhaps, a little
season after the Millennium has expired.
No other verses in the Scriptures indicate that "only
the Father knows," except those that deal with the heaven and earth passing
away.
As should be noted shortly in the text, when God gave us
the seven feasts of Israel, He gave us a timetable, including the day of the
Rapture.
Some try to separate these two verses. In doing this, they
do not see these verses as being an answer to one of the original questions
that was asked. Also in doing this, they perceive that no man can know the day
and hour of the Rapture. Others apply it to no man knowing the day and hour
of the second coming of Jesus Christ.Mt 24:42,44-*(Mt 24:42-51 is covered in detail under
the section, "Who Can Know the Time? Who Cannot Know the Time?") Verse
42-WATCH THEREFORE: FOR YE KNOW NOT WHAT HOUR YOUR LORD DOTH COME. Verse 44-THEREFORE
BE YE ALSO READY: FOR IN SUCH AN HOUR AS YE THINK NOT THE SON OF MAN COMETH.
In verse 49, it refers to the evil servant, then continues in verse 50-THE LORD
OF THAT SERVANT (the evil servant) SHALL COME IN A DAY WHEN HE LOOKETH NOT FOR
HIM, AND IN AN HOUR THAT HE IS NOT AWARE OF. These verses are showing us that
the evil servant shall not know the day and hour of the Rapture.Mt 25:13-*(Mt 25:1-13 is covered in detail under the
section, "Who Can Know the Time? Who Cannot Know the Time?") The foolish
virgins, whose lamps went out, are illustrated. They came and said, in verse
11-LORD, LORD, OPEN TO US. Verse 12-BUT HE ANSWERED AND SAID, VERILY I SAY UNTO
YOU, I KNOW YOU NOT. Verse 13-Jesus continues addressing the foolish virgins,
WATCH THEREFORE, FOR YE KNOW NEITHER THE DAY NOR THE HOUR WHEREIN THE SON OF
MAN COMETH. Here, the foolish virgins, which let their lamps go
out, do not know the day or hour of the Rapture.Mk 13:31-33-HEAVEN AND EARTH SHALL PASS AWAY: BUT
MY WORDS SHALL NOT PASS AWAY. BUT OF THAT DAY AND THAT HOUR KNOWETH NO MAN,
NO, NOT THE ANGELS WHICH ARE IN HEAVEN, NEITHER THE SON, BUT THE FATHER. TAKE
YE HEED, WATCH AND PRAY: FOR YE KNOW NOT WHEN THE TIME IS.
As was previously stated, regarding Mt 24:35,36, the same
applies to Mk 13:31-33. Some try to use these verses to say that no one can
know the day and hour of the Rapture. This is not the case. These verses are
the answer to the third question that was asked of Jesus by His disciples in
Mt 24:3, which was, TELL US...WHAT SHALL BE THE SIGN...OF THE END OF THE WORLD?
The answer that Jesus gave was, the HEAVEN AND EARTH SHALL PASS AWAY. Then Jesus
continued, BUT OF THAT DAY AND THAT HOUR KNOWETH NO MAN. God’s Word gives us
hundreds of verses to help us know and understand the times we are currently
in. Nevertheless, regarding the time that the heaven and earth shall pass away,
there are no clues to exactly when it will happen other than, perhaps, a little
season after the Millennium has expired.
No other verses in the Scriptures indicate that "only
the Father knows" other than those that deal with the heaven and earth
passing away.
As should be noted shortly in the text, when God gave us
the seven feasts of Israel, He gave us a timetable, including the day of the
Rapture.
Some try to separate these three verses. In doing this, they
do not see these verses as being an answer to one of the original questions
that was asked. Also in doing this, they perceive that no man can know the day
and hour of the Rapture. Others apply it to no man knowing the day and hour
of the second coming of Jesus Christ. (This paragraph was used regarding Mt
24:35,36, also.)Mk 13:34-36-FOR THE SON OF MAN IS AS A MAN TAKING
A FAR JOURNEY, WHO LEFT HIS HOUSE, AND GAVE AUTHORITY TO HIS SERVANTS, AND TO
EVERY MAN HIS WORK, AND COMMANDED THE PORTER TO WATCH. WATCH YE THEREFORE: FOR
YE KNOW NOT WHEN THE MASTER OF THE HOUSE COMETH, AT EVEN, OR AT MIDNIGHT, OR
AT THE COCKCROWING, OR IN THE MORNING: LEST COMING SUDDENLY HE FIND YOU
SLEEPING. Some may say these verses are denoting the Rapture. Others
may say they are talking about the second coming of Jesus to the earth. Jesus
is the Master of the house. It is not clear which event is covered here. It
could well be both events. Not knowing the day is not mentioned here but rather
the time of day or the watch. This could be, because (when the Lord comes) there
is a time difference in various parts of the world. Who can know and who cannot
know is also omitted from these verses.
Jesus left His Father. He came to the earth and then returned
to His Father. He gave His servants authority, and to each person was given
work to do. The porter was commanded to watch.
The emphasis is on watching as well as not being caught sleeping
or unprepared. The emphasis is on always being in a state of readiness for the
return of Jesus. Lk 12:40-*(Lk 12:35-40 is covered in detail under
the section, "Who Can Know the Time? Who Cannot Know the Time?") Verse
40-BE YE THEREFORE READY ALSO: FOR THE SON OF MAN COMETH AT AN HOUR WHEN YE
THINK NOT.
These verses need to be included with Lk 12:41-46. They reveal
that the Son of Man will come at an hour when the unfaithful and unwise servant,
which strays from God’s ways, will not expect Him.Lk 12:46-*(Lk 12:41-46 is covered in detail under
the section, "Who Can Know the Time? Who Cannot Know the Time?") IF
THAT SERVANT SAY IN HIS HEART, MY LORD DELAYETH HIS COMING; AND SHALL BEGIN
TO BEAT THE MENSERVANTS AND MAIDENS, AND TO EAT AND DRINK, AND TO BE DRUNKEN;
THE LORD OF THAT SERVANT WILL COME IN A DAY WHEN HE LOOKETH NOT
FOR HIM, AND AT AN HOUR WHEN HE IS NOT AWARE, AND WILL CUT HIM IN SUNDER, AND
WILL APPOINT HIM HIS PORTION WITH THE UNBELIEVERS.
These verses need to be included with Lk 12:35-40. They reveal
that the Son of Man will come at a day and hour when the unfaithful and unwise
servant, which strays from God’s ways, will not expect Him.1 Thes 5:1-6-*(These verses are covered in detail
under the section, "Who Can Know the Time? Who Cannot Know the Time?")
Verse 2-THE DAY OF THE LORD SO COMETH AS A THIEF IN THE NIGHT. Verse 4-BUT YE,
BRETHREN, ARE NOT IN DARKNESS, THAT THAT DAY SHOULD OVERTAKE YOU AS A THIEF.
Verse 5-WE ARE NOT OF THE NIGHT, NOR OF DARKNESS. In the preceding verses, in
chapter 4, the Rapture of the church is covered. Then, in chapter 5, it is clearly
stated that the day of the Lord (the Rapture in this case) will come as a thief
in the night to those that are of the night or darkness. But for those that
are not in darkness, the day of the Rapture will not come as a thief in the
night. They will not be caught by surprise.Rev 3:3-REMEMBER THEREFORE HOW THOU HAST RECEIVED
AND HEARD, AND HOLD FAST, AND REPENT. IF THEREFORE THOU SHALT NOT WATCH, I WILL
COME ON THEE AS A THIEF, AND THOU SHALT NOT KNOW WHAT HOUR I WILL COME UPON
THEE. Again, we have the word "watch." This is used, in some cases,
in conjunction with watching and being ready in regards to the Rapture. Also
the words, I WILL COME ON THEE AS A THIEF. These words bear a resemblance to
1 Thes 5:1-6, which denotes the Rapture. Also used are the words, THOU SHALT
NOT KNOW WHAT HOUR I WILL COME.
Although this verse does not clearly state it is denoting
the Rapture, the implication is there. Thus, again, we note it is the church
(or brethren)—who are not watching—that will be caught by surprise. Immediately
preceding the words, IF THEREFORE THOU SHALT NOT WATCH, the word REPENT appears.
We can therefore say, the brethren need to repent and watch, or they SHALT NOT
KNOW what hour (Jesus) WILL COME.

23-SUMMARY
OF THE DAY AND HOUR VERSES

Throughout
church history, many of these verses were simply interpreted to mean, watch
and be ready for the physical return of Jesus Christ. The church was to be in
expectation that Jesus could return at any time. Even in the days of the apostles,
they expected Jesus to return. As it is written, JESUS SAITH UNTO HIM (unto
Peter), IF I WILL THAT HE TARRY TILL I COME, WHAT IS THAT TO THEE? FOLLOW THOU
ME. THEN WENT THIS SAYING ABROAD AMONG THE BRETHREN, THAT THAT DISCIPLE SHOULD
NOT DIE: YET JESUS SAID NOT UNTO HIM, HE SHALL NOT DIE; BUT, IF I WILL THAT
HE TARRY TILL I COME, WHAT IS THAT TO THEE?-Jn 21:22,23.
However, since 1917, and especially since the rebirth of
Israel in 1948, more light has been shed on Bible prophecy. Knowledge has increased,
as certain technological discoveries have come forth, and certain world events
have come to pass. Many of these events were foretold thousands of years ago
in the Scriptures. As world events continue to happen and we get closer and
closer to the Rapture and Tribulation, even more things will be understood as
God’s prophecies continue to unfold.
The following was foretold by Daniel: BUT THOU O DANIEL,
SHUT UP THE WORDS, AND SEAL THE BOOK, EVEN TO THE TIME OF THE END: MANY SHALL
RUN TO AND FRO, AND KNOWLEDGE SHALL BE INCREASED-Dan 12:4. AND HE SAID, GO THY
WAY, DANIEL: FOR THE WORDS ARE CLOSED UP AND SEALED TILL THE TIME OF THE END-Dan
12:9.
As we continue to get closer and closer to the Rapture, the
Holy Spirit continues to open up more and more understanding of Bible prophecy
to those that humbly search and study God’s Word. God has raised up certain
people in this generation that are comparing world events with Bible prophecy.
These watchmen are sounding the alarm, "Watch and be ready. The coming
of Jesus, to take His church, is even at the doors."
Ref Mt 24:35,36-Heaven and earth shall pass away. No one
knows the day and hour of the heavens and earth passing away.
Ref Mt 24:42-51-The Rapture. The evil servant cannot know
the day and hour of the Rapture.
Ref Mt 25:13-The Rapture. The Christians whose lamps went
out cannot know the day and hour of the Rapture—until it is too late.
Ref Mk 13:31-33-The heavens and earth passing away. No one
knows the day and hour of the heavens and earth passing away.
Ref Mk 13:34-36-The Lord returns. Those sleeping or others
may not know the watch (or time of day) that the Lord returns.
Ref Lk 12:40-The Rapture. The unfaithful and unwise, who
stray from God’s ways, will not know the hour of the Rapture. This goes with
Lk 12:41-46.
Ref Lk 12:41-46-The Rapture. The unfaithful and unwise, who
stray from God’s ways, will not know the day and hour of the Rapture.
Ref 1 Thes 5:1-6-The Rapture. The Lord will come as a thief
in the night to those in darkness. The Lord will not come as a thief in the
night to those of the light.
Ref Rev 3:3-The Rapture. The Lord will come as a thief in
the night to those not watching.
As we have seen, no Scripture tells us that the wise and
faithful servant of Jesus Christ, who is of the day and is watching and ready,
cannot know the day and hour of the Rapture. It is quite the contrary. The Scriptures
indicate that he can know the day and hour.
As we should see a bit further in the text, God does give
us a timetable regarding the day of theRapture. God does give us the
hour that the cry is made. God does give us the generation that will see this
all happen. However, the year that the Rapture will happen is not given
within that generation. As the time draws closer and we see world events unfolding
in light of God’s Word, the day should come when God’s faithful servants will
know that the year is at hand.

24-THE
SEVEN FEASTS OF ISRAEL—IS THIS GOD’S TIMETABLE?

All
glory, and honor, and praise be unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord, for
the wisdom and knowledge presented in the following.
It is written, DECLARING THE END FROM THE BEGINNING, AND
FROM ANCIENT TIMES THE THINGS THAT ARE NOT YET DONE-Isa 46:10. BEFORE THEY SPRING
FORTH I TELL YOU OF THEM-Isa 42:9.
The Lord God gave seven feasts to the children of Israel,
after He brought them out of bondage in Egypt. Leviticus chapter 23, refers
to these as the feasts ofthe Lord. In verse two
of the same chapter, the Lord says, these are My feasts. The word
"feast" translates from the Hebrew word mowadah,
meaning "an appointed or set time or season." Indeed, these seven
feasts are God’s appointed times, containing His redemptive plan for mankind,
first alluded to in the Garden of Eden-ref Gen 3:15. These feasts contain not
only God’s appointed timetable but also a glorious revelation of the Lord Jesus,
the Messiah, and His marvellous work—to make a way for sinful man to be reconciled
to a Holy God. It is written of Jesus, LO, I COME (IN THE VOLUME OF THE BOOK
IT IS WRITTEN OF ME) TO DO THY WILL, O GOD-Heb 10:7. THESE ARE THE WORDS WHICH
I SPAKE UNTO YOU, WHILE I WAS YET WITH YOU, THAT ALL THINGS MUST BE FULFILLED,
WHICH WERE WRITTEN IN THE LAW OF MOSES, AND IN THE PROPHETS, AND IN THE PSALMS,
CONCERNING ME-Lk 24:44. Most Gentile believers are not aware of the significance
of these feasts and how they relate, not only to past events, but also to events
yet to unfold.
It is important to understand that the Bible is a Jewish
book. Our Lord Jesus Christ (the Word) is of Jewish descent. On earth He was
MADE OF THE SEED OF DAVID ACCORDING TO THE FLESH-Ro 1:3; in heaven He is called
THE LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH, THE ROOT OF DAVID-Rev 5:5.
The question is asked in Scripture, WHAT ADVANTAGE, THEN,
IS THERE IN BEING A JEW(?) MUCH IN EVERY WAY! FIRST OF ALL, THEY HAVE BEEN ENTRUSTED
WITH THE VERY WORDS OF GOD-Ro 3:1,2 NIV. THEIRS IS THE ADOPTION AS SONS; THEIRS
THE DIVINE GLORY, THE COVENANTS, THE RECEIVING OF THE LAW, THE TEMPLE WORSHIP,
AND THE PROMISES. THEIRS ARE THE PATRIACHS, AND FROM THEM IS TRACED THE HUMAN
ANCESTRY OF CHRIST, WHO IS GOD OVER ALL-Ro 9:4,5 NIV. HE HAS REVEALED HIS WORD
TO JACOB, HIS LAWS AND DECREES TO ISRAEL. HE HAS DONE THIS FOR NO OTHER NATION-Ps
147:19,20 NIV.
Many details of the feasts are not in the Bible. Because
the job of taking the Gospel worldwide was first commissioned to the Jews, details
about the feasts, for example, did not need to be included in the Scriptures.
The important details that nearly every Gentile believer overlooks today are
common knowledge to the Jews.
Most Jews understand the meanings and purposes of the feasts,
but do not recognize Jesus as the Messiah and His fulfillment of these feasts.
Gentile believers do recognize Jesus as Lord and Messiah, but, for the most
part, have little realization that these feasts represent the very essence of
Jesus’ mission on earth and are vital to God’s ongoing plan, which shall reach
fulfillment during the millennial kingdom. These even appear in the "Lord’s
Prayer," the model prayer given by Jesus to teach us how to pray. To understand
the seven feasts is to realize not only the scope of God’s master plan, but
also, to gain precious insight of the Messiah: to begin to grasp the breadth,
and length, and height, and depth of His love. For it is written, He HATH GIVEN
US AN UNDERSTANDING, THAT WE MAY KNOW HIM-1 Jn 5:20. God, in His mercy, provided
a way for the Gentiles to be included, as He said, AND IN THY SEED (Israel)
SHALL ALL THE NATIONS OF THE EARTH BE BLESSED-Gen 22:18.
Before going into the feasts of Israel, we need to understand
that Israel uses a calendar much different from the Gregorian calendar commonly
used today. There are two calendars used by the Jewish people, a sacred and
a civil. The sacred calendar was given by the Lord in Egypt at the time of Passover.
Ex 12:1,2-AND THE LORD SPAKE UNTO MOSES AND AARON IN THE LAND OF EGYPT, SAYING,
THIS MONTH SHALL BE UNTO YOU THE BEGINNING OF MONTHS: IT SHALL BE THE FIRST
MONTH OF THE YEAR TO YOU. The civil calendar was evidently in use before the
sacred calendar.
Jewish months are lunar, meaning they are determined by the
phases of the moon. A new moon would mark the beginning of the month. Since
Passover occurs on the 14th day of the first month, it would always
occur on a full moon—the first full moon of spring. There are twelve months
of app. 29 days or 30 days each, which comes out to about 354 days a year. To
compensate for the difference of 365 days, an additional month is added seven
times during a 19 year cycle; it is added in the 3rd, 6th,
8th, 11th, 14th, 17th, and 19th
year, between the months of Adar (Feb-Mar) and Nisan (Mar-Apr). Because seasons
are determined by the earth’s relationship to the sun, these adjustments are
necessary in order to keep the feasts occurring in their proper season; as it
is written, in Num 9:3, YE SHALL KEEP IT IN HIS APPOINTED SEASON. The Lord’s
feasts are always reckoned according to the Jewish sacred calendar. The first
month of the Jewish sacred calendar is called Nisan (or Abib in the Old Testament)-ref
Ex 34:18; 23:15. This corresponds with March or April.
The Lord delivered to Moses, on Mount Sinai, instructions
for seven special dates, which were to be held each year by the children of
Israel. AND THE LORD SPAKE UNTO MOSES, SAYING, SPEAK UNTO THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL,
AND SAY UNTO THEM, CONCERNING THE FEASTS OF THE LORD, WHICH YE SHALL PROCLAIM
TO BE HOLY CONVOCATIONS, EVEN THESE ARE MY FEASTS. THESE ARE THE FEASTS OF THE
LORD, EVEN HOLY CONVOCATIONS, WHICH YE SHALL PROCLAIM IN THEIR SEASONS-Lev 23:1,2,4.
As mentioned, these feasts are covered in many other places in the Bible, but
Lev 23 conveys in one chapter the key requirements of all seven.
Proper and faithful observance of these feasts was vital
to the Jewish people, particularly the Day of Atonement. As it is written, FOR
WHATSOEVER SOUL IT BE THAT SHALL NOT BE AFFLICTED IN THAT SAME DAY, HE SHALL
BE CUT OFF FROM AMONG HIS PEOPLE. AND WHATSOEVER SOUL IT BE THAT DOETH ANY WORK
IN THAT SAME DAY, THE SAME SOUL WILL I DESTROY FROM AMONG HIS PEOPLE-Lev 23:29,30.
In the Bible, the number seven is used to mean "total"
or "completeness." It seems evident that all Bible doctrine and prophecy
are founded in these feasts. They reveal the time for the fulfillment of Jesus
Christ’s crucifixion, to His coming again, and the millennial kingdom.
The following chart gives a brief example of what is being
said. These events occurred on the exact dates that God had set, over 1400 years,
before Jesus was born. Keep in mind that the Jewish day begins in the evening
(near dusk), of the previous day. Feasts appear in the order that God gave them
(Lev 23).

l.

Passover

Fourteenth day of
the first month. Jesus was crucified. Jesus became our Passover (fulfilled).

2.

Unleavened Bread

Fifteenth day of the
first month. Jesus buried. The middle loaf of bread is hidden or buried
(fulfilled).

3.

Firstfruits

Sunday following Unleavened
Bread. Jesus resurrected. He became the Firstfruits of them that died
(fulfilled).

4.

Pentecost

Also called Feast
of Weeks in the Old Testament. Fiftieth day after Firstfruits. The Holy
Spirit came in His fullness (fulfilled).

5.

Trumpets

First day of the seventh
month. The Rapture (not yet fulfilled). Next major event.

6.

Atonement

Tenth day of the seventh
month. Repentance of Israel. When they shall look upon Him, Whom theyhave
pierced (not yet fulfilled).

7.

Tabernacles

Fifteenth day of the
seventh month. The coming state of rest. Jesus reigns on earth for one
thousand years (not yet fulfilled).

It
should be noted that these seven feasts were observed on specific days. When
Jesus came the first time, He fulfilled the first three feasts on the precise
days and in the same order that God had given them. The fourth feast was also
fulfilled ten days after Jesus ascended into heaven, when He sent the Holy Spirit
on Pentecost. The last three feasts are awaiting fulfillment and are associated
with events surrounding His second coming. Please note that when Jesus returns
the second time, there are actually two phases to His coming: 1) before the
Tribulation, He comes in the clouds to rapture the saints-ref 1 Thes 4:16,17;
and 2) after the Tribulation, He physically returns to the earth, and every
eye shall see Him-ref Mt 24:29,30; Zech 12:10. The next feast to be fulfilled
is Trumpets; the next event to be fulfilled on God’s prophetic timetable is
the Rapture. In the wilderness account, there were two trumpets blown, the first
one and the last one. The first trumpet was for the gathering or calling of
the people; the second (or last) was for the people to move out.
AND THE LORD SPAKE UNTO MOSES, SAYING, MAKE THEE TWO TRUMPETS
OF SILVER; OF A WHOLE PIECE SHALT THOU MAKE THEM: THAT THOU MAYEST USE THEM
FOR THE CALLING OF THE ASSEMBLY, AND FOR THE JOURNEYING OF THE CAMPS-Num 10:1,2.
Note, there are two.
There are two events in the Rapture. It is written, FOR THE
LORD HIMSELF SHALL DESCEND FROM HEAVEN WITH A SHOUT, WITH THE VOICE OF THE ARCHANGEL,
AND WITH THE TRUMP OF GOD. The first event is, AND THE DEAD IN
CHRIST SHALL RISE FIRST. The second event is, THEN WE WHICH ARE ALIVE AND REMAIN
SHALL BE CAUGHT UP TOGETHER WITH THEM IN THE CLOUDS TO MEET THE LORD IN THE
AIR: AND SO SHALL WE EVER BE WITH THE LORD-1 Thes 4:16,17.
It should also be noted that there is a cry made (a notification
or to call aloud), alerting the virgins that the bridegroom is coming; afterward,
they "move out" or are taken-ref Mt 25:6.
Did God give us the day of the year when the Rapture
will happen, as He did for Jesus to be crucified, to be buried, to rise from
the dead, and the coming of the fullness of the Holy Spirit?
In the Scriptures, the words feasts, solemn, solemnities,
and appointed, in many instances, come from the same Hebrew word mowadah,
meaning—"appointment; a fixed time or season, specifically a festival;
the place of meeting; also a signal."
It is written, THREE TIMES A YEAR SHALL ALL THY MALES APPEAR
BEFORE THE LORD THY GOD IN THE PLACE WHICH HE SHALL CHOOSE; IN THE FEAST OF
UNLEAVENED BREAD, AND IN THE FEAST OF WEEKS, AND IN THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES-Deut
16:16. All Jewish males were required to make three trips a year to Jerusalem
to keep these feasts, which became known as the pilgrim feasts. Why Jerusalem?
Note the words, IN THE PLACE WHICH HE SHALL CHOOSE. It was to be in the place
that the Lord chose. In Deut 12:11-14, the Lord told the people of Israel that
one day in the future, after they took possession of their land, THEN THERE
SHALL BE A PLACE WHICH THE LORD YOUR GOD SHALL CHOOSE TO CAUSE HIS NAME TO DWELL
THERE; THITHER SHALL YE BRING ALL THAT I COMMAND YOU...TAKE HEED TO THYSELF
THAT THOU OFFER...IN THE PLACE WHICH THE LORD SHALL CHOOSE. It was the temple
that Solomon built in Jerusalem, which the Lord chose; as it is written, I HAVE
HALLOWED THIS HOUSE...TO PUT MY NAME THERE FOREVER; AND MINE EYES AND MINE HEART
SHALL BE THERE PERPETUALLY. JERUSALEM, THE CITY WHICH THE LORD DID CHOOSE...TO
PUT HIS NAME THERE-1 Ki 14:21. It is interesting to note that Jerusalem is referred
to as THE CITY OF OUR SOLEMNITIES (or the place of meeting)-Isa 33:20.
The first trip to keep the Feast of Unleavened Bread took
place in the spring around March or April. The second was Pentecost or Feast
of Weeks, occurring fifty days later; this was also in the spring around the
beginning of June. The last of the three required trips occurred in the fall
around September or early October, which was the Feast of Tabernacles, a seven-day
celebration. Though Tabernacles was expressly named in Scripture, the trip might
also include Trumpets and Atonement, which occur just prior to Tabernacles.
If combined into one trip, these three fall feasts would take place over a twenty-two
day period. As we look into these Jewish feasts and their celebrations, we should
see God’s wonderful plan unfolding. Though Gentiles are not required to keep
the feasts, it is important that we learn and apply the principles that they
teach. By doing this, we should have a more profound understanding of God’s
plan for the ages, which He has revealed through His Son—Jesus Christ, our Lord
and Savior.